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Wiidooktaadwin Indigenous Mentorship Initiatives (WIMI)

Wiidooktaadwin is an Anishnaabe word that means “helping one another”. Wiidooktaadwin connects Indigenous Nipissing University students with Indigenous youth in local secondary schools. Every school year begins with an opening by an Elder in a teaching circle. Seven sessions are led by mentors in the schools, each framed in each of the Seven Grandfather Teachings. Topics also covered in Mentor sessions include leadership in community, working together, and the importance of sharing our gifts. University Mentors are asked to participate in a weekend training, and volunteer 2 hours weekly over 8 weeks in the Fall.

In the Fall and Spring, we host two Aasgaabwitaadwin Indigenous Youth Leadership Conference on campus. Aasgaabwitaadwin is Anishnaabe word meaning “we are standing in support of one another.” Aasgaawitaadwin culminates a celebration of the Wiidooktaadwin Mentorship Program for mentors, students, teachers, and community.